Thunder Fall to Pacers in Nail-Biting Game 1 of NBA Finals!

Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, USA - On June 6, 2025, the NBA Finals kicked off in a dramatic fashion as the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off against the Indiana Pacers, where the Thunder fell just short, losing Game 1 by a hair-raising score of 111-110. The tension was palpable throughout the match at Paycom Center, as fans witnessed a nail-biting finish reminiscent of Oklahoma’s earlier playoff struggles against the Denver Nuggets. Just like then, the outcome came down to the final moments, leaving Thunder players and fans alike with a bitter taste of defeat.

Forward Jalen Williams expressed disappointment over the last-second loss, acknowledging it’s a tough way to start the Finals. However, he emphasized that the team has faced similar challenges before and is not unfamiliar with overcoming adversity. Star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander added that while the way they lost hurt deeply, it is the defeat itself that ultimately stings the most. Yet, he remains confident in the team’s ability to bounce back, indicating a strong sense of resolve within the locker room.

Pacers‘ Resilience

Echoing Milwaukee’s fierce competitiveness, the Indiana Pacers have shown their mettle this postseason, having clawed back from deficits in five different games, overcoming 15-point deficits or more. This resilience proved crucial in the tight battle against the Thunder. Pacers‘ standout Tyrese Haliburton has been particularly effective, landing four critical shots in the postseason that have turned the tides in favor of his team.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault, while recognizing the heartbreak of the close game, urged his players to look forward, assuring them that tonight’s loss doesn’t seal their fate. „There’s a long series ahead of us,“ Daigneault mentioned, emphasizing that they will approach Game 2 prepared to shift momentum in their favor.

Upcoming Showdowns

As the series stands, the Indiana Pacers lead 1-0, and the clash of these titans is far from over. Game 2 is set for June 8 at 8 p.m. ET, where the Thunder will have the home-court advantage once more. Fans can expect an intense battle as Oklahoma City looks to regain their footing in this best-of-seven series. Following this matchup, the teams will face off again on June 11 and June 13, with games potentially shifting venues for Game 5 and beyond based on the series outcomes.

With all games broadcast on ABC and ESPN+, fans won’t want to miss the unfolding drama of the NBA Finals. While this matchup marks Oklahoma City’s first Finals appearance since 2012 and the Pacers‘ first since 2000, both teams are hungry for a championship, and each game promises to deliver the suspense and excitement that only the NBA’s grand stage can offer.

As the series progresses, one thing is certain: both teams are equipped to fight tooth and nail for the title, and basketball lovers throughout Florida—and beyond—are in for a thrilling postseason adventure.

For more detailed game recaps and future updates, you can find further commentary and analysis at NBAManiacs, Yahoo Sports, and ESPN.